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 along with beautiful artwork for moms that want to remember every detail for years to come

RALEIGH newborn, maternity, & family PHOTOGRAPHER

full service, stress free

A beautiful and authentic Raleigh newborn, maternity or family session, with cohesive perfectly styled outfits, without the stress of buying one time outfits for your entire family. 

An easy laid back luxury experience, with me reducing your mental load and taking all the stress off you so you can focus on time with your children!

Beautiful custom artwork that captures the essence and spirit of your family, meant to be handed down through the generations.

A supportive cheerleader who has been in your shoes before ready to serve you throughout the entire process! 

Imagine This...

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Let's plan a session that truly reflects who you are. After a relaxed baby/child led session, I'll create custom wall galleries and heirloom albums, turning your moments into lifelong treasures. I can't wait to help you fill your walls with precious family memories so when you look back in ten tears you will be able to remember and relive all the emotions that took place during this sweet time! 

I offer a client wardrobe for moms and babies, along with hair and makeup coordination.

As your Raleigh newborn & MATERNITY photographer

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about kristin

As a Raleigh newborn photographer I serve the Triangle area, but live in Apex, NC with my family. I’m a wife, mama of 2, and dog mama! As a mom I know the mental load we all carry which is why I make it my mission to serve you and make the experience as stress free as possible so you can focus on loving your littles and taking in all the sweet moments with them. 

I’m so happy you’re here!

Hi Mama, I’m Kristin!

Melanie D.

"We had a wonderful family photo session with Kristin!! We have two littles (3 & 5), and she was so great at engaging with them and keeping the shoot interesting and fun for them."

Katie B.

"Working with Kristin was fantastic! She made the experience feel so comfortable for my husband and I - two people who do not like taking photos. We both left the shoot on a high, feeling so happy and energized.

Stephanie C.

"Kristin is magical behind the camera. She gets shots that you didn’t think could happen and makes the entire process effortless. 10/10 highly recommend Kristin. You won’t be disappointed!"

Read

Booking your Raleigh newborn photography session is a beautiful way to celebrate one of life’s most meaningful transitions. Those first few weeks with your baby are tender and fleeting. Capturing them allows you to hold onto the connection, the wonder, and the quiet joy of those early days long after they’ve passed.

But once your session is scheduled, the next big question often is: What should we wear? 

It might seem like a small detail, but the clothing you choose plays a huge role in the final look and feel of your newborn photos. As a full-service photographer serving Raleigh, Apex, and surrounding North Carolina areas, I help families plan every detail of their session — including outfits — so that it feels completely stress-free and beautifully cohesive.

In this post, I’m sharing my best tips for choosing newborn photoshoot outfits, plus how my curated client wardrobe makes it all so much easier.

Why Outfit Choices Matter for Your Raleigh Newborn Photography Session

Clothing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a newborn session, but it’s one of the most powerful tools we have to create images that feel natural, emotional, and timeless.

When done well, your outfits will softly complement your baby’s features, skin tones, and the mood of the space. Whether we’re shooting in my studio or in your home, the colors and textures you wear will shape the overall look of your images. Well-styled outfits help us avoid visual distractions and create consistency across your gallery.

You can take a look at my family photography portfolio for inspiration and to see how beautifully cohesive styling supports the connection and storytelling in every image.

family with newborn by newborn photography raleigh

Start with What Makes You Feel Beautiful

I always suggest beginning with mom’s outfit first. Not only are women’s clothing options more varied, but moms are often the most particular about how they feel in what they’re wearing…and rightfully so. You just welcomed a whole new human into the world. You deserve to feel confident and radiant.

Start by picking a dress, blouse, or piece you genuinely love. From there, we’ll coordinate the rest of the family’s clothing around your look using complementary tones and textures.

To make this process easy, and so you don’t have to worry about buying a beautiful dress you’ll only wear once, I offer an extensive client wardrobe full of handpicked pieces designed specifically for photos. For moms, I have more than 50 dresses in sizes Small to XXL from brands known for their flattering fits and flowy fabrics. Some of my most-loved brands include:

  • Hill House Home (think classic nap dresses with beautiful draping)
  • Nothing Fits But (a go-to for stylish, bump-friendly and postpartum-approved pieces)
  • Baltic Born (known for romantic silhouettes and soft, stretchy material)
  • Ivy City Co (offers feminine, elegant styles with inclusive sizing)

These dresses are not only beautiful, but also chosen with photography in mind; they move gracefully, photograph well in natural light, and feel incredibly comfortable.

Choose Soft, Neutral Tones for a Timeless Look

When styling families for newborn photography in Raleigh, I always recommend leaning into neutral and earthy tones. Creams, taupes, light browns, soft greens, muted blues, and gentle pinks tend to photograph beautifully and stand the test of time.

Neutral tones also work well with almost any setting. If your session is taking place outdoors or in a studio with natural light, these colors will complement the environment rather than compete with it. Plus, neutrals keep the attention where it belongs, on your family’s emotion and connection.

Avoid bold, saturated colors or outfits that are too matchy-matchy. Instead, mix tones that work well together. For example, pairing ivory with soft sage, dusty rose, or warm caramel creates a calm and cohesive palette without everyone wearing the same color.

newborn photoshoot outfit example

Keep It Simple: Patterns, Logos, and Accessories

A few things to avoid: busy patterns, large logos, or clothing with writing. These details can be distracting and take away from the emotion in your photos. If one family member is wearing a subtle pattern, balance it with solids for everyone else.

Think layers and textures instead of prints. A knit cardigan, linen dress, or cotton swaddle adds interest without overwhelming the scene. This is especially helpful when photographing newborns, as they are the stars of the session.

For newborns, I have soft, neutral swaddles and simple onesies that photograph beautifully. No need for anything fancy — often, the simplest clothing helps create the most heartfelt images.

The Client Closet: Outfit Planning Made Easy

As a mom myself, I know how overwhelming it can feel to shop for outfits after just having a baby. The last thing you need is a pile of packages, returns, and sizing frustrations. That’s why my Raleigh newborn photography experience includes access to a curated client closet for both moms and little ones.

The client closet is available for your entire family, with wardrobe options for:

  • Moms (sizes S–XXL)
  • Dads (coordination suggestions and neutral shirts)
  • Newborns and babies
  • Children up to 5T

Together, we’ll create perfectly curated outfits that are flattering, cohesive, and camera-ready — no need to buy anything new or worry about what fits.

To learn more about the services I offer and what’s included in a newborn session, visit the newborn photography services page.

Confidence is the Secret Ingredient

No matter what you wear, the most important thing is that you feel good in it. Confidence shines through in your images, and that’s what makes them meaningful.

Choose pieces that make you feel like yourself, that fit well, and that allow you to relax and snuggle in with your new baby. Your session isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, love, and preserving a moment that will pass far too quickly.

newborn photography raleigh nc by Kristin Marie

Ready to Plan Your Raleigh Newborn Photography Session?

If you’re searching for a newborn photographer in Raleigh NC that cares about more than just taking pictures, I’d love to serve your family. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on helping you feel at ease every step of the way.

Whether it’s guiding you on what to wear, creating a calm environment during your session, or designing heirloom artwork for your home, my goal is to give you an experience as beautiful as the photos we’ll create.

To get started, you can explore mynewborn photography portfolio, view available family photo session options, or learn more about the heart behind my work on the about page.

If you’re ready to book your session or have questions about styling your newborn photoshoot outfits, feel free to reach out here. I’m always happy to help. And if you’re looking for more everyday family tips, from favorite baby gear to local activities, check out my post on fun and free places to visit this spring in Raleigh.You can also follow along on Instagram for more behind-the-scenes moments and wardrobe inspiration.

April 29, 2025
parents looking at newborn baby taken by raleigh newborn photography
Read

If you’re anything like me, by the time spring rolls around, you’re itching to get OUT of the house. The kids are bouncing off the walls, the weather is finally cooperating, and suddenly, everything is blooming like crazy. It’s the perfect time to grab your crew and head outside—but here’s the best part: there are so many incredible places around Raleigh (and Apex) that don’t cost a dime to enjoy.

As a Raleigh family photographer (and mom who loves a good outing), I’m constantly scouting for spots where families can let loose, explore, and make some sweet memories. So, here are a few of my tried-and-true favorites for spring that are easy on the wallet and big on fun.

WRAL Azalea Garden

I always recommend this spot to families, especially in the spring when everything is popping with color. The WRAL Azalea Garden feels like one of Raleigh’s best-kept secrets, tucked right next to the WRAL studios. It’s not huge, which I actually love because it’s super manageable for younger kiddos (no “I’m tired” meltdown halfway through your walk). The winding paths, benches, and blooming azaleas make it feel like you’ve stumbled into a storybook.

As a photographer, I can tell you this garden is absolutely gorgeous for spring family photos, but it’s also just a sweet spot to slow down and enjoy a quiet afternoon. Bonus points if you bring snacks—there are plenty of shady little nooks to stop and have a mini picnic.

Dorothea Dix Park

Ah, Dorothea Dix—this one’s a classic. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, it never gets old. The wide-open fields, skyline views, and rolling hills make it feel like the perfect “let’s spread out a blanket and let the kids run wild” spot. And in late spring, the fields start blooming and it’s chef’s kiss.

We’ve spent countless afternoons here just playing tag, blowing bubbles, or tossing a frisbee. And if you’re a dog family like we are, it’s super pet-friendly! I also love how versatile this park is—you can do everything from flying a kite to just soaking in the city views.

JC Raulston Arboretum

If your family loves gardens (or even if you just like a pretty place to walk), the JC Raulston Arboretum is such a gem. It’s free, and it’s full of hidden corners, themed gardens, and enough winding paths to keep the kids curious. My littles love exploring the Japanese Garden and finding all the little “secret” spots under the trees.

And if you’re anything like me and you love a spot that looks beautiful AND wears the kids out, this one is a win-win. Honestly, it’s also one of my favorite places to bring families when I’m working as an Apex family photographer—it has that perfect mix of cultivated beauty and natural charm.

NC Museum of Art Park

Okay, hear me out: The NC Museum of Art Park might just be Raleigh’s most underrated family outing. Yes, the art museum itself is fantastic (and free!), but behind it is a massive park filled with miles of trails, sculptures, and open spaces where the kids can actually touch the art. It’s basically part playground, part hiking trail, part outdoor gallery.

We’ve spent entire mornings here wandering, discovering new sculptures, and letting the kids just… be kids. And if you pack a lunch, there are plenty of shady spots to sit and enjoy it. This one feels like a breath of fresh air every time we visit—and the creativity it sparks in kids (and adults!) is so fun to watch.


A Quick Note from Your Raleigh Family Photographer

I’ll be honest—spring is my absolute favorite season to get outdoors with my family and with my clients. Everything feels fresh, green, and just a little bit magical this time of year. So whether you’re out on a casual Saturday adventure or thinking about scheduling a session, these Raleigh (and Apex) spots are some of the best places to soak it all in.

And if you’re ready to capture all that spring goodness in photos, I’d be so excited to help! As a Raleigh family photographer (and Apex family photographer, too), I’m now booking for the season and would love to plan something fun and easy for your crew.

Get in touch here and let’s start planning your perfect spring session!

March 25, 2025
Read

As a Raleigh newborn photographer and a mom myself, I know how big of a transition those early newborn days can be—especially when it comes to breastfeeding. Whether it’s your first or your third baby, feeding challenges can pop up and it’s so helpful to have the right support. One of the best resources for new parents? A trusted lactation consultant.

I always love sharing local gems with my families, so today I’m highlighting three wonderful lactation consultants in the Apex and Raleigh area who can help you navigate the ups and downs of breastfeeding with confidence.

1. The Better Boob

I’ve personally used The Better Boob, and I can’t recommend them enough! A friend recommended them to me, and I actually messaged them while I was still in the hospital before being discharged. Less than 36 hours later, their amazing team was sitting with me in the comfort of my own bedroom, helping me navigate those early feeding struggles.

They’re a team of IBCLCs (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants) offering in-home, office, and virtual consults—which is such a gift when you’ve got a fresh little one and you’re still recovering. Their approach is incredibly supportive and judgment-free, and they’re pros at helping with everything from latching issues, tongue ties and supply concerns to pumping plans. Their calm energy and practical, real-world advice make them a go-to for so many new moms in the Triangle (including me!).

Website: thebetterboob.com

2. WakeMed Lactation Services

If you delivered at or near WakeMed, their Lactation Services are such a helpful resource. WakeMed offers outpatient breastfeeding support, including private consultations and group classes. Their IBCLCs are experienced in helping families through a wide range of feeding challenges, and their convenient Raleigh location is great for families on that side of town. Plus, they work closely with your pediatrician to create a plan that works for you and your baby.

Website: wakemed.org

3. Healthy Latch – Chelsea Simpson, CBS

Chelsea Simpson is a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist and the heart behind Healthy Latch, serving families across Lillington and beyond. She makes expert lactation support super accessible with virtual and text-based services—so you can literally pull out your phone and get the help you need, when you need it. Whether you’re dealing with nipple pain, pumping struggles, or just looking for a little extra encouragement, Chelsea is ready to support you.

She also runs The Milk Lounge, a monthly mom’s group in Lillington where you can make connections and find your village (because we all need one!). And for parents who love learning on their own time, her self-paced breastfeeding course, Feeding Your Baby, is a wonderful resource you can dive into anytime.

Website: healthylatch.com


Whether you’re looking for a little troubleshooting help or ongoing breastfeeding support, these three consultants can make all the difference in your postpartum journey.

And as your go-to Apex newborn photographer and Raleigh newborn photographer, I’m always here to make those early memories stress-free and special—snuggly baby, sleepy smiles, and all.

Want more local recommendations or ready to book your newborn session? Let’s chat here!

Breastfeeding mom by Raleigh Newborn Photographer
March 24, 2025

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